Nail Bracing – A Gentle Approach to Ingrown & Curved Nails
Are you struggling with ingrown or involuted nails? Nail bracing offers a non-invasive, pain-free alternative to surgery, gently guiding the nail into a natural shape over time.
Nail bracing is a technique where a specialized brace or strip is applied to the affected toenail to gently lift and reposition it.
This helps relieve pressure on the surrounding skin, reduces pain and prevents the nail from digging into the flesh, which is the hallmark of an ingrown toenail.
How Does Nail Bracing Work for Ingrown Toenails?
For ingrown toenails, the nail’s edges often grow inward, cutting into the skin and causing inflammation.
Here’s how the process typically works:
- Assessment: A podiatrist will examine your ingrown toenail to determine if nail bracing is the right treatment for you. They will check the severity of the ingrown nail and any other underlying issues.
- Application of the Brace: The podiatrist will carefully apply the bracing material to the affected toenail. The brace is secured to the nail using an adhesive and it is designed to gradually lift the nail’s edges.
- Adjustments: Over time, the tension on the brace will help guide the nail to grow straight. Your podiatrist may need to adjust the brace every few weeks, depending on the progress of the nail’s healing.
- Pain Relief: As the nail straightens, the pressure on the surrounding skin decreases, providing significant pain relief. The healing process may take several weeks, but the results can be long-lasting.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Nail Bracing?
Nail bracing is a good option for many people with mild to moderate ingrown toenails, especially if the problem is recurring or if surgery is not a desirable option. It’s particularly useful for those who want to avoid the pain and recovery time associated with surgery.
However, nail bracing may not be suitable for severe cases where the toenail has been significantly damaged or infected. In such cases, surgery or other medical treatments might be necessary.
At The Chelsea Clinic, we use the latest and most effective bracing systems, including:
- 3TO Spange – A flexible wire system that corrects nail curvature.
- Combi Ped – Combines adhesive and wire for precise correction.
- RUCK Brace – A durable and adaptable solution for various nail conditions.
- Ross-Harrison System – A specialist technique for advanced correction.
These systems provide long-lasting relief, promote healthy nail growth and are suitable for all ages.
Ready to restore comfort back into your toenails and feet? We can discuss which method might be the best one for you. Email 📩 us on:
info@thechelseaclinic.uk
We are independent prescribers able to prescribe any medication from the BNF relevant to the lower limb, foot and ankle.
Are you suffering from any hand or foot condition? At The Chelsea Clinic, we can help. One of our podiatrists can assist and then recommend what treatments are best to get you back on track. Podiatrist South Kensington
Schedule an appointment here or you may call us at +44 (0) 207 101 4000.
We hope you have a feetastic day!
-The Chelsea Clinic and Team
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